There is a wealth of academic research that suggests that differences in risk appetite are at the heart of differences in career and business trajectories. We wanted to go beyond the theory and ask real people from the community about their perspectives and experiences with risk and risk taking.

Julie Cielo

For me, risk has never been optional—it has been the only way forward. I left home at 17 with just $800 in my pocket after a childhood of neglect and abuse, and with no support system I put myself through mortuary college in Florida while working at a convenience store to survive.  Read More>>

Desiree Choy

Even though I grew up in risk averse environments, I’ve always had the desire to try and experience things I never have. While I wouldn’t say I just like taking risks for risk sake, I think this desire naturally led me to pursue things that were outside the “safe” zone.  Read More>>

Cesar De Assis

When I think about risk, it’s always a little scary — but I’ve learned that growth only happens when you step into the unknown. If you never take risks, you stay stuck in the same place. I also believe it’s important to understand that every risk, big or small, has consequences, and part of maturity is being ready to face them. Read More>>

Helena-Alexis Seymour

I believe risk is connected to following an internal Divine energy that guides you in a direction that has no external proof that it will be successful (yet). We do it almost daily as humans in small and/or big amounts. In my career I risk following my passion of acting and modeling knowing on the external that booking jobs is out of my control. Read More>>

SALMAN ALAM KHAN

For me, curiosity has always been the starting point. I take risks because I want to understand something more deeply — about people, culture, or myself. Whenever I’ve taken a big step in life or in my career, it’s usually because I felt curious about what would happen if I went beyond what I already knew. Read More>>

Jennifer Siegel

Growing up, I used to think about every decision in terms of risk. It was automatic. I would internally question most of my behaviors – Is it risky to try a new food? I could be allergic and not know. Is it risky to give a presentation? I might black out and embarrass myself.  Read More>>